Chapter 4

Chapter Four

The spring rain had lingered for three continuous days. At dawn, a beam of light slipped through the lattice window, illuminating two rows of orchid bushes beneath the eaves. Their leaves had turned fresh and tender green; curled leaves still held droplets of dew, sparkling and translucent.

Liansheng moved all the potted plants outside, arranging them on the windowsill. Several white peonies, sheltered from the storm, were in full bloom, with fresh flowers and new leaves. After the rain, the courtyard was filled with the scent of spring.

Turning back inside, Shen Mingsu was bent over, diligently filling in the incense stick inscriptions.

Her expression was focused and utterly serene.

After the commotion yesterday, she had taken the initiative to return, which had softened the Lady of the Duke’s temper. She had instructed two aunts to add some refined and calming items to Shen Mingsu’s room.

Burning incense was among them.

Recalling that Lady Shen seemed fond of pomegranate blossoms, Liansheng noticed that only a few flower buds remained on the branches after the rain. Standing beside her, he whispered softly, “I will ask the steward to buy a pomegranate plant later, to be placed on the left side—then there will be one on each side.”

Before Shen Mingsu could respond, two figures passed outside the open window, followed by a lively voice: “Sister Shen, the flowers in your courtyard are blooming beautifully.”

It was Madam Fo Lan, the Third Lady.

Moments later, a young lady entered the room. She had willow-shaped brows, almond eyes, and a delicate oval face, smiling brightly as she approached Shen Mingsu. Glancing at the nearly filled incense powder before her, she remarked, “Sister, you’re burning incense.”

The Feng family had three branches, with three daughters in the household. The First and Second Ladies were already married off, leaving the Third Lady still in the inner chambers.

Having lived in the Feng household for a year, the Third Lady was the only one who liked to visit Shen Mingsu’s courtyard.

Shen Mingsu looked up and smiled, “Third Lady has come.”

Wan Yue had prepared a straw mat for her opposite Shen Mingsu. Fo Lan declined to sit, standing instead, “It’s been raining these past days, I’ve developed calluses from sitting.”

Fo Lan had heard about yesterday’s incident. If not for the Third Madam’s intervention, she would have come over then. Now that a day had passed, it was awkward to bring it up again for comfort. Fortunately, she had good news today and had endured the trip, teasing, “Sister Shen, guess why I came today?”

Shen Mingsu shook her head and smiled, “What is it?”

Unable to hold it in any longer, Fo Lan said, “Just now I greeted Mother, and Spring Su happened to pass by, saying that after Brother returns from the morning court session, all branches are to visit the Restful Hall to discuss the marriage between Brother and Sister.”

Spring Su was the Lady of the Duke’s personal maid.

Shen Mingsu had been with the Feng family for a year, and during that time there had been much gossip. Now it seemed the marriage arrangement was finally underway.

Fo Lan was likely the only one in the Feng family who truly thought Shen Mingsu worthy of Feng Zhongyan. She offered congratulations, “After the discussion, I’ll have to call you Sister-in-Law. What do you like? I should prepare gifts in advance.”

Seeing Shen Mingsu only smile without replying, her gaze drifted to the puzzle lock hanging at her waist.

Fo Lan was taken aback but laughed and explained, “I saw it in Brother’s room last time. I don’t know who made it, but it’s quite interesting. I asked Brother for it, but despite trying for a long time, I haven’t opened it. If you like it, take it. It can pass the time when you’re free.”

She reached to take it down, but Shen Mingsu quickly stopped her, “If Third Lady likes it, how could I take what belongs to you? Since you gave it, it’s yours.”

“Fine, then I’ll prepare another gift next time.”

Fo Lan had no intention of leaving soon after arriving. She stood for a while, and seeing Shen Mingsu’s interest in the incense, she asked Liansheng to fetch a set of incense boxes so they could burn incense together.

Before noon, Spring Su came to summon Shen Mingsu, “Lady Shen, please prepare yourself. Madam requests your presence.”

Fo Lan eagerly stood, “Sister Shen, let’s hurry.”

—

The Lady of the Duke had sent letters to all branches early that morning. Upon hearing of Feng Zhongyan’s return, everyone gradually gathered in the Restful Hall.

Third Madam Lin, upon learning that Fo Lan had gone to Shen Mingsu, took her maid ahead. In the courtyard, she encountered Second Madam, whose face was weary and anxious. She teased, “Such a joyous day, why so listless?”

“Where’s the joy?” replied Second Madam.

A few years ago, the Second Master had died of illness, leaving the second branch with orphans and a widow. Fortunately, the Second Young Master was promising. Two years ago, he had followed Feng Zhongyan into the court and had been stationed in Qingzhou. Rising from a soldier in the Righteous White Army to captain, he had won many battles. The last one remained before he could return to the capital and be ennobled.

Unexpectedly, at this moment, Prince Kang suddenly requested permission from the Emperor to lead troops to Qingzhou. Claiming deep hatred for the Hu people, he knelt in court, weeping and reprimanding the Hu for their cruelty to the inhabitants of Ye, vowing to personally slay their leader to prove his loyalty to the Zhao royal family.

His words sounded grand, but it was merely a bid to seize military glory.

Prince Kang was known as a lackadaisical figure, uninterested in fame or fortune. However, his son, the Sincere Prince, had defiled a maiden six months ago—the daughter of a craftsman working on the sacred temple. The craftsman, unable to seek justice, had killed himself by ramming his head into a temple pillar.

The Emperor was furious, stripping the Sincere Prince of his heir status. He was now imprisoned. If Prince Kang could return with military achievements, he could redeem himself and rescue his son.

But if this came at Prince Kang’s expense, what of the Second Young Master of the Feng family, who had bled and risked his life these past two years? Would all his efforts be in vain?

Third Madam, aware of the situation, advised gently, “Once the marriage discussion is over, speak with Boying. He’s no longer young, and after winning merit, it’s time to marry and have a companion.”

Speaking of the future brought some hope.

Feng Zhongyan, as Prime Minister, was deeply trusted by the Emperor. His prestige surpassed that of Prince Kang. Most matters in court were decided by his word.

Second Madam’s expression softened. Suddenly, she grabbed Third Madam’s arm and whispered, “I heard that Princess Rongxiu from Prince Kang’s residence came again yesterday. Now, just seeing her gives me a headache. I even resent that Shen lady for being so undistinguished. If she truly enters the household, I won’t be able to bear it.”

“You told me before, but you wouldn’t listen. You looked down on the Shen family for their lack of background, and now you’ve come to realize it.”

Second Madam sighed, “What good is realizing now? Shen lady made such a fuss yesterday. I thought she was formidable, but she ran back on her own. Such a useless woman…”

At that moment, Third Lady Fo Lan entered the courtyard arm in arm with someone, and everyone fell silent, turning to look.

—

Both young ladies wore light colors today: Fo Lan in pale purple, Shen Mingsu in soft peach. Shen Mingsu was about two fingers taller and fairer-skinned, with a delicate nose, cherry lips, and bright, clear eyes—her flawless face and graceful bearing naturally exuded noble elegance.

Fo Lan alone was a beauty, but whenever standing beside Shen Mingsu, she seemed merely a complement.

Third Madam was used to this and had no time to care. In terms of beauty, no girl in the capital could surpass Shen Mingsu.

The only downfall was her family background.

The Lady of the Duke had arrived. The two young ladies waited only briefly before they were called in.

The household had three daughters and three sons; two daughters had married out, but no son had yet brought a bride home. This was the first time taking a new wife, the head of the family was present, and all who should be were gathered.

Lord Feng Yuanji was also there.

Though he had been made Duke two years ago, he held no official court duties, spending his days painting and writing, rarely socializing. Shen Mingsu had paid respects to him once before, including at last month’s birthday; today was the third time.

Dressed formally, his face serious and dignified, he radiated the authority of a duke.

Shen Mingsu and Fo Lan stepped forward to pay their respects.

Seating was arranged: the Duke and Duchess of the main branch sat at the head, flanked by the Second and Third Madams.

After greetings, Fo Lan returned to sit behind Third Madam. Among the younger generation, Feng Zhongyan held the top position but had not yet arrived, so Shen Mingsu was escorted to the seat beside him.

Having been in the Feng household a year, Shen Mingsu was not a stranger. Though opinions varied, the marriage contract remained, marking her as the primary lady of the Feng family. The atmosphere was less stiff for the discussion. With Feng Zhongyan absent, the conversation soon turned to the Second Young Master.

The Duke rarely spoke on court affairs. Hearing Second Madam’s anxious tone, the Duchess soothed her, “Brother Ying knows what he’s doing. What’s the use of your worry?”

Glancing at Shen Mingsu, she cut off Second Madam’s nagging.

Yesterday, Shen Mingsu had been a wild girl. Now that she was calm again, she seemed much more composed.

With the marriage discussion imminent, peace was expected within the family. The Duchess greeted her, “Mingsu, have you rested well?”

Mingsu bowed slightly, “Thank you for your concern, Madam. All is well.”

“Liansheng told me you like pomegranate flowers. I’ve asked the steward to get some for you. When they arrive, you may pick the best ones…”

Before Shen Mingsu could reply, Second Madam interrupted sharply, “The primary lady of the Feng family holds high status. From now on, if Mingsu likes anything, just have it bought. No need to hold back.”

At that moment, Feng Zhongyan arrived.

The room fell silent.

He had changed out of his court robes into a brand-new sapphire blue robe with a jade belt. Broad shoulders, narrow waist, tall and poised—compared to his usual calm demeanor, he now appeared more youthful and bright.

Today was the day of their marriage discussion. He had shed his official authority, allowing family members to jest. Third Madam glanced at her son and teased, “Looking at your brother, don’t you feel ashamed?”

The Third Son, fifteen and a student, respected and feared Feng Zhongyan. He quickly averted suspicion and replied to his mother, “I don’t feel that way. Perhaps it’s your thoughts.”

Third Madam smiled at him and said no more.

Feng Zhongyan approached his seat but paused before sitting. He stood in front of Shen Mingsu and handed her a small box.

Unaware of its contents, Shen Mingsu neither looked up nor accepted it.

“These are the latest popular hair ornaments from Mingyue Studio. See if you like them,” he said gently, a stark contrast to his coldness yesterday.

Fo Lan was surprised. “Isn’t that the hair ornament from Mingyue Studio? I ordered one last month but haven’t received it yet. Brother actually bought it.”

With his status, he could buy anything. She was struck with surprise, “They say Brother focuses only on court affairs and is dull in matters of the heart. Seeing this, he’s actually quite aware.”

Today was their marriage discussion, so this kind of affection and teasing was appropriate. No one scolded Fo Lan for speaking out, all waiting for Shen Mingsu’s response.

After all, she had been stopped at the door yesterday as Feng Zhongyan brought Princess Rongxiu inside, causing quite a scene.

Feng Zhongyan was probably waiting for her to relent.

Knowing she was upset, he had specially asked Fu An to prepare a gift this morning—offering it to her publicly as a gesture of apology.

Shen Mingsu’s gaze quietly rested on the box. Her lowered eyelids, adorned with curled lashes, concealed her expression. Rising calmly, she took it from his hand, “Thank you, Lord Governor.”

Second Madam was stung by her gentle manner and turned her face away.

The Lady of the Duke breathed a silent sigh of relief. Shen Mingsu’s lack of grudges brought her some peace of mind. Seeing Feng Zhongyan seated, she began the matter at hand.

“Years ago, Boying was saved by the Shen patriarch, establishing this bond through a marriage contract. Though the Shen family has fallen on hard times and has no one to speak for them, as long as the Feng family is here, this marriage will not wrong Mingsu. Mingsu has been with us for a year. Boying is no longer young. We have gathered everyone today to discuss their marriage…”

By convention, marriage discussions begin with the bride’s family. But with Shen Mingsu as the sole survivor of her family, normal rules could not apply. Special circumstances required special handling.

After some arrangements, it seemed only the date needed to be fixed for the formal acceptance.

“I have already chosen a date. The ninth day of the third month is auspicious,” the Lady of the Duke declared.

Next was the dowry.

With the Shen family gone, their property was nonexistent. The dowry would have to be provided by the Feng family.

The Lady of the Duke had considered this and decided to purchase the dowry equivalent to the Shen patriarch’s highest official rank: fourth rank.

“Dowry will consist of 128 items, to be moved to the courtyard at Pear Blossom Lane where I arrived with my dowry. When the time comes, Mingsu will be married from there…”

The plan was reasonable and met no objection.

If the main branch’s future brides were treated the same, it would be appropriate. But clearly, that would not be the case. Second Madam glanced silently at Shen Mingsu opposite and whispered, “One hundred twenty-eight items—might that be a bit… insufficient?”

Only she spoke up in the room.

The Lady of the Duke turned, her gaze solemnly fixed on Second Madam. Second Madam, having her reasons, smiled, “I mean, this is the first time Feng family marries a bride, and she is the primary lady. It should be a grand affair. Why not, to be perfect…”

One hundred twenty-eight items were two sets. Perfect would be ten sets?

The prestigious Duke household could afford it, but was it necessary? Everyone in the capital knew the Shen family’s situation.

Ten sets.

A wedding as grand as a princess’s.

The Lady of the Duke knew Second Madam’s thoughts. Prince Kang had tried to seize the Second Young Master’s military honor, and she was furious, taking it out on Princess Rongxiu.

Originally, she had no intention to allow Rongxiu into the household after learning about the marriage contract between Boying and the Shen family. With so many eyes watching, even if Rongxiu was a princess, she would never be the legitimate wife.

But Rongxiu was infatuated with her son and had made a scene several times. Even Prince Kang and the Princess had compromised. What could she say?

Without status and with a lesser dowry, how could she face Prince Kang and the royal family? How would the world view the Feng family and the Zhao royal house? Wouldn’t it be a disgrace?

After the Second Master’s death, Second Madam’s vision grew narrower.

But since she had brought it up, she couldn’t back down. She turned to Shen Mingsu, “Mingsu, what do you think?”

Fo Lan was taken aback; the question seemed improper. “The dowry should be whatever it is. How can this be asked…”

She was interrupted by a sharp poke in the waist from Third Madam.

Fo Lan winced and swallowed the rest of her words.

The room fell silent.

Feng Zhongyan gently set down his teacup on the wooden table, about to stand, but before he could move, Shen Mingsu stepped forward first and knelt.

The Lady of the Duke’s heart tightened. “This child, you’re only asking a question. Why kneel? Get up…”

Shen Mingsu did not rise. She bowed to the Duke and Duchess, “I thank you both for your care this past year.”

Looking up again at the Duke and Duchess, she spoke slowly, “Five years ago, my father did indeed save Lord Feng’s life, and the families were bound by this marriage contract. But my father was a physician who saved countless lives without ever asking for favors. Were he still alive, he would not allow your esteemed household to come and demand repayment of this life-saving debt.”

She paused, “As for the marriage contract between myself and Lord Feng, it was promised while my father lived. Now that he is gone, this marriage shall be null and void.”

Her voice was gentle, her expression composed. After she finished, everyone was momentarily stunned. As they slowly understood the weight of her words, shock filled the room.

Fo Lan gasped, “Sister Shen…”

Second Madam’s face finally showed a hint of respect. She had thought the wild spirit of this girl would be softened, but not to this extent.

The Lady of the Duke’s expression shifted in surprise.

The Duke rarely spoke, but now he said, “Our Feng family values our word. How could we break a marriage contract? If there are difficulties or dissatisfaction, let us sit down and discuss them…”

Shen Mingsu did not respond. She rose and took from her sleeve an old scroll, presenting it with both hands.

“This is the marriage contract once signed by my father and Lord Feng. Now I return it to your esteemed household. During the betrothal, I have abided by all rules without overstepping. The Feng family has done nothing wrong to me. Once this contract is returned, I, Shen Mingsu, sever all ties with your household and shall not come to trouble you further.”

Seeing the Lady of the Duke hesitate to take it, Shen Mingsu placed it on the wooden table beside her.

Second Madam was speechless.

Had she gone mad?

Returning the contract left no room for negotiation.

No one expected her to truly break off the engagement. The Shen family’s plight and the Feng family’s status were well known. Anyone would say that the Shen family had been incredibly lucky to align with the Feng family.

If the Feng family were to dissolve the contract, some might believe it.

The Lady of the Duke was at a loss and glanced at Feng Zhongyan.

His expression remained unchanged, but his eyes quietly fixed on Shen Mingsu, motionless—clearly unprepared for this outcome.

Having returned the contract, Shen Mingsu approached Feng Zhongyan without meeting his gaze or speaking, gently placing the earlier box beside him.

Out of the corner of her eye, she noticed the sleeve resting on the armchair embroidered with a blooming pomegranate flower.

Her father once said pomegranate blossoms were beautiful and rich, and could bring a young lady a blessed marriage.

She had loved them and planted a courtyard full of them.

But later, when the illusion shattered, and she returned to the real world, learning to endure cold alone in wind and snow, learning to live in loneliness, tasting the fear of death and the pain of loss, growing accustomed to turning with no one behind her—

She no longer yearned for steadfast love, nor for wealth, nor for a house full of children.

So she no longer loved pomegranate blossoms.

As the bronze box fell with a clear, crisp sound, her wide sleeves drifted down like clouds from the table. She stepped back two paces and turned to leave.

Feng Zhongyan…

I am gone and will not seek you again.